The influence of initial geometric imperfections on the buckling load of single and double curvature concrete shells

Several traditional methods are available to address the problem of instability in concrete shells, usually by means of curves representing the influence of the initial geometric imperfections in the buckling load for simple geometries (spheres and cylinders). Although some revisions of these methods have been made, new curves for other geometries have not been stated. In this study, the imperfection sensitivity factor in shell structures with different geometries (spherical dome, barrel vault, and double-curvature ruled surface) is determined graphically. This graphical method is useful to the designer in the early stages of the design of shell structures when dimensioning.

► The imperfection sensitivity factor in concrete shells is determined graphically.
► Spherical domes, barrel vaults and double-curvature ruled surfaces are studied.
► Useful method to the designer in the early stages of the design when dimensioning.
► Application cases by providing three examples of actual shell structures.
► Conclusions about the influence of imperfection on the buckling load are presented.